‘Drug house closed for business’ in Williamson Co.; neighbors share mixed reactions

JOHNSTON CITY, Ill., (KBSI) — Two people were arrested on drug charges after Williamson County Sheriff’s deputies executed a search warrant on March 8, 2025.

According to the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, the residence had a history of drug activity. Law enforcement had been investigating it for several months.

During a search of the residence, deputies found methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, drug packaging materials, and digital scales.

Anthony Bantle and Rebecca Pena were arrested. Both face charges for possession of methamphetamine, controlled substances, and drug paraphernalia.

Before leaving the residence, deputies put a sign in the yard which read, “This drug house — closed for business.”

Law enforcement video footage shows a deputy speaking to a neighbor who asked about the sign.

“My message to you would be — tell any other neighborhood drug dealers that they’re next,” he said.

Neighbors shared their mixed reactions with FOX23.

One neighbor — who did not want to be publicly identified — said she was not surprised by the arrest.

“People would go over there and then stay five minutes and then they’d leave,” she said. “It would happen all the time, all day.”

She said she arrived home Saturday night just as the deputies were putting the sign in the yard.

“I thanked him for putting up the sign and finally busting them,” she said.

According to Jennie Crawford the sign was removed the same night. It is not clear who removed it.

Crawford said she was home when the arrest was made.

“About 6:30 in the evening, I saw my neighbor in handcuffs with a police officer by her,” she said.

Crawford said the neighbors were friendly with her — she’s known them for several years. The arrest came as a shock.

“I was very surprised,” she said, “and just sad for that kind of tragedy.”

Sheriff Jeff Diederich writes that additional charges are anticipated. Stay with FOX23 for updates.